Children lie most when the truth feels dangerous. If we want honest kids, home has to be a place where telling the truth is safer than hiding it.
Thank them for the truth first
Before you address the broken cup, say: "Thank you for telling me. That took courage." Then deal with the consequence calmly.
Separate the child from the behaviour
Try "That choice wasn't okay" instead of "You are a liar." Labels stick; choices can change.
Don't set traps
If you already know what happened, say so: "I saw the cup is broken. Let's talk about it." Asking questions you know the answer to invites a lie.
Model it
Admit your own mistakes out loud. "I was wrong to shout earlier. I'm sorry." Children copy what they see far more than what they are told.
